How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they wake up.
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present a risk.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot like a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new crib as your child gets ready to go up. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should Baby Cot Bed be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements in baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls and other small things. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks amazing. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
This is a great choice when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.